A student observes a longitudinal section of a growing root tip under a microscope. If the observation moves strictly proximally from the region of meristematic activity towards the mature base, which of the following sequences correctly represents the predominant cellular features encountered?

Step-by-step solution

The period of growth is divided into three phases: meristematic, elongation, and maturation. In a root tip, moving proximally (away from the tip) from the region of meristematic activity, one encounters the phase of elongation followed by the phase of maturation. The cells in the meristematic region are rich in protoplasm and possess large conspicuous nuclei. The cells in the elongation zone (proximal to the meristem) are characterised by increased vacuolation, cell enlargement, and new cell wall deposition. The ce